poise 1 of 2

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as in posture
a general way of holding the body the woman's poise suggested that she was accustomed to having her wishes carried out promptly and without question

Synonyms & Similar Words

poise

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verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word poise different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of poise are address, savoir faire, and tact. While all these words mean "skill and grace in dealing with others," poise may imply both tact and address but stresses self-possession and ease in meeting difficult situations.

answered the accusations with unruffled poise

When would address be a good substitute for poise?

The words address and poise can be used in similar contexts, but address stresses dexterity and grace in dealing with new and trying situations and may imply success in attaining one's ends.

brought it off with remarkable address

When can savoir faire be used instead of poise?

The words savoir faire and poise are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, savoir faire is likely to stress worldly experience and a sure awareness of what is proper or expedient.

the savoir faire of a seasoned traveler

Where would tact be a reasonable alternative to poise?

The meanings of tact and poise largely overlap; however, tact implies delicate and considerate perception of what is appropriate.

questions showing a lack of tact

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of poise
Noun
But Aberg's poise and ability to navigate one of the toughest courses in the world with ease despite his inexperience gave fans hope that at least one Green Jacket is in his future. Tommy Tuberville, Newsweek, 7 Mar. 2025 Burke showed the poise of a veteran when yesterday’s game against the Los Angeles Angels at Rate Field could have gotten away from the Chicago White Sox early. Chicago Tribune, 28 Mar. 2025
Verb
The Blue Jackets won the shot battle 19-14 through two periods, but Toronto seemed poised to earn a close, relatively uninspiring win, thanks to Anthony Stolarz holding his ground between the pipes and Nick Robertson coming up with two quality finishes. Nick Ashbourne, New York Times, 6 Apr. 2025 As early as this summer, the old 11 Wells is poised to re-open as a cocktail tasting room and a 21+ mini golf attraction. Rob Clapp, Twin Cities, 6 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for poise
Recent Examples of Synonyms for poise
Noun
  • Once the wolves were reintroduced, the number of elk declined and the park regained its equilibrium.
    D. T. Max, New Yorker, 7 Apr. 2025
  • After the massage, Brashear gave me specific yoga postures and self-care practices selected to restore equilibrium.
    Kayla Blanton, Outside Online, 4 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • But while many corporate leaders can talk the theory of anti-fragility, only a select cohort truly embody a posture that not only survives but actually thrives during crises.
    Alexander Puutio, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025
  • Trump is enacting Project 2025 nearly to the letter, deploying executive orders, lawsuits, and rhetorical bombast in an effort to force judges, law firms, cultural institutions, university presidents, and press barons into postures of pitiable obedience.
    David Remnick, New Yorker, 6 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • At the party, Greg pulls her aside, and Belinda braces herself — but Greg surprises her.
    Dave Nemetz, TVLine, 30 Mar. 2025
  • In Michigan's Upper Peninsula, counties including Alger, Luce, Delta, and Schoolcraft are bracing for up to 8 inches of snow and ice accumulations of up to half an inch through Sunday evening, while Dickinson, Iron, and Menominee Counties could see up to 6 inches of snow.
    Martha McHardy, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Her chances of winning have hovered around the 80 percent mark since March 17.
    Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Apr. 2025
  • Trillion-dollar deficits are no longer shocking, and interest expense alone is hovering around record levels.
    Dave Birnbaum, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Finally, be prepared to share this stance, even if the decision is unpopular.
    Simone E. Morris, Forbes.com, 1 Apr. 2025
  • The Trump administration agrees, filing a brief supporting Catholic Charities and warning that Wisconsin’s stance could lead to unconstitutional government meddling in church affairs.
    Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 31 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • The slightly curved wand coats each lash in nourishing ingredients—biotin helps to fortify lashes to protect against breakage, while antioxidant-rich ingredients like peptides, vitamin E, and panthenol help to condition and hydrate.
    Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 26 Mar. 2025
  • Though the Steelers have made a concerted effort to fortify the trenches, this move that’s felt inevitable for some time.
    Mike DeFabo, New York Times, 26 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Ideas such as bypassing stops on the Red Line near Streeterville, establishing a curfew on the CTA or holding parents legally responsible for their children’s actions at the gatherings have also floated around.
    Jake Sheridan, Chicago Tribune, 6 Apr. 2025
  • Its pollen is made of tiny particles that float through the air.17 Fall allergy season lasts from August through November, peaking in September and October.
    Lindsay Curtis, Health, 6 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Use this insider knowledge to your advantage.) Come to the table with the attitude of creating a win-win scenario for yourself and the seller.
    Ryan Serhant, Forbes.com, 7 Apr. 2025
  • Like a lot of that stuff increases your overall perspective on life and your attitude and stuff.
    Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Poise.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/poise. Accessed 13 Apr. 2025.

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